Alpha-Stim AID + Life Coaching for Mental Health Disorders
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether the Alpha-Stim AID® device, combined with life coaching, can reduce symptoms of burnout and moral distress in oncology healthcare workers. The Alpha-Stim® device, attached to the earlobes, uses gentle electrical currents to address issues like anxiety and insomnia. Participants will also engage in life coaching sessions to enhance personal and professional resilience. Healthcare workers experiencing burnout symptoms and working on the Buffalo-Niagara Medical Campus may be well-suited for this study. As an unphased trial, this study provides healthcare workers with a unique opportunity to explore innovative solutions for burnout and moral distress.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that the Alpha-Stim® device is safe for use in mental health interventions?
Research has shown that Alpha-Stim® is generally safe and easy to use. In studies, most users reported few side effects. The device sends a gentle electrical current to help with anxiety, insomnia, and depression. Most participants did not experience major side effects. A few reported minor issues, such as mild headaches or skin irritation at the application site, but these were rare. Overall, evidence suggests that the Alpha-Stim® device is safe for use.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Alpha-Stim AID treatment because it offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing mental health disorders. Unlike traditional therapies that often rely on medication, Alpha-Stim AID uses cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES) to send tiny electrical currents to the brain, which can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia. This method is particularly appealing as it minimizes the risk of side effects commonly associated with psychiatric medications. Additionally, combining Alpha-Stim with life coaching provides a holistic approach, addressing both mental well-being and lifestyle changes, which could enhance overall effectiveness.
What evidence suggests that Alpha-Stim AID® and life coaching could be effective for mental health disorders?
Research has shown that the Alpha-Stim AID device, which uses a gentle electrical current to stimulate the brain, can help reduce depression symptoms. One study found a noticeable decrease in these symptoms from the beginning to the end of the study. A review that combined results from several studies found that Alpha-Stim AID was effective in managing depression, though the improvement was small. However, some studies found it was no better than a fake treatment. In this trial, participants will use either the Alpha-Stim AID device or a sham device, both combined with life coaching sessions. While results are mixed, some evidence suggests it might help with mental health issues.45678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Amy A Case
Principal Investigator
Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for oncology healthcare workers experiencing burnout and moral distress. Participants should be seeking ways to improve their mental health, resilience, and job satisfaction.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants use the Alpha-Stim® or sham device daily and participate in virtual group life coaching sessions
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in burnout symptoms, moral distress, resilience, and employment retention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Alpha-Stim AID®
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Lead Sponsor